Canon outs E-series lens duo: pro-zoom and whispering prime

Canon has snuck out a pair of new EF-series lenses, a compact prime to replace the well-esteemed EF 35mm f/2, and a 24-70mm zoom with L-series optics. The Canon EF 24-70 f/4L IS USM promises performance whether you're zoomed in or out wide, with a 7.9-inch macro mode and up to four stops of stabilization, and is targeted by the company at full-frame DSLRs like the EOS 6D.

It can maintain its f/4 maximum aperture throughout the zoom range, and is made up of 15 lens elements split into 12 groups. The aperture is a 9-blade circular and Canon has used inner focusing and a ring-type ultrasonic motor for quieter use, though which supports manual override at any time.

The EF 24-70 f/4L IS USM measures in at 93mm long, is dust and water resistant, and comes with a pouch and reversible lens hood. It'll hit shelves in December, priced at $1,499.

As for the Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM prime, that's the fruits of the company's work to improve picture quality around the edges of the frame, as well as make for a faster, quieter lens than its predecessor. It has optical image stabilization and the same manual focus override support as the new zoom, a circular aperture diaphragm, and has been coated for flare reduction.